Fred Carlton Miller

Fred Carlton Miller, 94, passed away on December 9, 2025. He was born on May 8, 1931, in Huntington, West Virginia, to Fred Carlton Miller and Geneva Lackey Miller.

Fred graduated from the University of Kentucky in 1953, where he played trombone in the marching band and was a proud member of the Delta Tau Delta fraternity. He served his country in the U.S. Army just after the Korean War.

In 1956, Fred moved to St. Petersburg, Florida, where he met the love of his life, Jean Carolyn Tummins. They married and later relocated to Iowa for Fred's career in the insurance industry. Together, they raised four children in Urbandale, Iowa, where they made their lifelong home. The kids cherish memories of family picnics at Lions Park, Sunday morning fishing at area lakes and lots of fun playing family board games. Fred supported the kids in their sports activities, coaching girls' softball and even getting a part time job to help pay for the boys' travel hockey club.

Fred retired from Farm Bureau Insurance Company in 1991. He continued working as an investigator for the City of Des Moines attorney's office for several years.

Fred and Jean treasured their winters in Apache Junction, Arizona, where Fred enjoyed golf, pool volleyball, swimming, and lively games of cards and dominos among friends. In retirement, he discovered a passion for the arts, taking classes in painting and woodcarving. His talent flourished, and he created many beautiful pieces that will be cherished for generations.

Fred and Jean enjoyed searching for antique treasures for many years and later Fred enjoyed going to thrift shops with Cindy and finding treasures there, especially frames for his many works of art.

Fred lived a healthy, balanced life, setting a great example for all who knew him. He exercised daily, practicing yoga and staying active at the gym till he was 91 years old. He played golf till he was 89 years old. He was a lifelong learner, spending hours at the library exploring books that broadened his mind and perspective. He loved traveling, visiting family across the country, and collecting new experiences along the way.

Fred was always interested in his grandchildren's activities, going to their sports events and music concerts. He will be remembered as a patient, loving and kind husband and father, and a playful, devoted grandfather and great-grandfather. He was intelligent, quick-witted, humble, and always a pleasure to talk with-qualities that made him widely respected and deeply loved.

Fred is survived by his children: Cindy Lewis of Urbandale, IA; John Gregory Miller (Lisa) of Omaha; Vicki Offermann (Steve) of Urbandale; and Kenneth Miller (Yvonne) of Pewaukee, WI. He is also survived by his grandchildren: Brandon Miller (Robyn) of West Allis, WI; Jonathan Miller of Spring Grove, IL; Kelsey Miller of Milwaukee, WI; Amber Klein (Matt) of Omaha, NE; and Grant Miller of Omaha, NE. He leaves behind great-grandchildren Charlie June and Cole Klein of Omaha, NE, and a new baby on the way in West Allis, Wi.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Jean Miller, and his son-in-law Alan Lewis.

There will not be any services, as per Fred's wishes.